As was announced late last week, PENN Medicine has lost a good friend and dear colleague with the death of John “JP” Pryor. Dr. Pryor was working in Iraq as an Army trauma surgeon when he was felled by enemy fire on Christmas Day. John was an exceptional human being who truly lived his values everyday. He felt a special obligation to use his skills to help those serving our country and the many innocent victims of war. Sadly, this admirable trait put him in harm’s way one last time.
As we seek to find meaning in this terrible tragedy, we must take some comfort in knowing that John always gave his very best. From saving lives in our trauma bays, to fighting violence in West Philadelphia, to garnering the attention of policymakers on important matters, he never waivered in his desire to bring his mighty skills to bear on the most difficult problems of our world. A deeply thoughtful man, John wrote eloquently about what he saw and felt as a trauma surgeon and his words will live on for those of us left to follow his example of compassion and excellence.
A public wake will be held for Dr. Pryor.
Moorestown Memorial Home (Lankenau Funeral Homes) 334 Chester Avenue Moorestown, NJ 856-235-0007 Saturday, January 3, 2009 6:00-9:00 PM Sunday, January 4, 2009 2:00-4:00PM 6:00-9:00PM
A funeral mass will be said for Dr. Pryor on January 5, 2009 at 10 AM at the Cathedral Basilica of SS Peter and Paul, 1723 Race Street in Philadelphia. All are welcome. Burial will be private.
The Fund for Dr. John Pryor has been established to help his wife Carmela and their 3 small children. Donations can be made as follows:
UPHS- Dr. John Pryor Fund Suite 750 3535 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-3309
We will remember and celebrate John’s amazing life later in the New Year. The family has established a website to share thoughts and memories of John.
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The University’s nexus for technology transfer supports researchers in their innovative efforts, from CAR T to mRNA advancements that have dramatically reshaped the world.
